With the right tools and a little preparation, a ceiling can be painted without difficulty.
Step 2: Clean the ceiling. Soot, dirt, and mildew can interfere with the new paint, so it is important to clean the ceiling first. Use an industrial cleaner like Tri-Sodium Phosphate (TSP) and a similar substitute, mixing the cleaner with water according to instructions. Dip a new sponge-mop into the cleaning solution, wring, and scrub the ceiling as you would a floor. Work in four-square-foot sections. Once clean, thoroughly rinse all ceiling surfaces with water and allow to dry completely. Use a new sponge-mop and cleaning solution.
Wear non-slip shoes when using a ladder, and make sure the ladder is resting on a flat, non-slip surface. Wear goggles and protective clothing when painting overhead.
